The colleges with names most familiar to you are not necessarily those with the programs best for you. Take time to consider colleges you have not heard much about...you may be pleasantly surprised.

Put together a list of at least five questions to ask the admissions personnel at the colleges you are considering. Compare their answers.

When the schools call you, or when you meet with an admissions recruiter, be sure to ask all the questions you have, and listen actively to everything he or she says.

Remember that affordability is not simply a matter of tuition. How many credits a college is willing to grant for prior learning, the amount of financial aid it can offer, and the existence of tuition installment plans are all factors to be considered.

Don't trust your memory. Take notes whenever you speak with an admissions representative on the phone or in person. And, also take notes when reading college brochures.

Be certain you are committed to earning a degree before enrolling anywhere. Good basic academic skills are important, but your success is most apt to be determined by how strongly committed you are to putting in the time and effort required to master your coursework.

Be sure to choose your major carefully and in accordance with your professional goals. Some fields of study may be so narrow that they are worth little as a credential if you ever want to make a career change. On the other hand, a very broadly based degree might not be specific enough to prepare you for a niche career. Ideally, you should seek a degree that can serve you well even if your professional focus changes.

Try to schedule some regular study time, and stick with your schedule.

If you have been out of school for a few years, don't be intimidated. Just be sure to keep up with your assignments and ask questions whenever you do not understand the material.